Marketing executives know just how vital design is to a company’s branding and perception. When we think of the world’s most successful companies, we know that we can visualize their logos and packaging designs in our minds. That’s because they understand that graphic design is key to making a lasting impression on customers. But why exactly is graphic design so important in the first place?

 In this blog post, we’ll delve into the critical role graphic design plays in marketing, and why marketing executives should prioritize it in their strategy.

Communication

One of the primary roles design plays in marketing is communication. A brand’s visual language is often the first point of contact with a potential customer, so businesses must make a great first impression with exceptional design. Effective design can communicate a brand’s tone, values, and expertise without the need for copious amounts of text.

• A staggering 93% of all human communication is visual, highlighting the importance of effective graphic design in conveying messages quickly and effectively
• Graphic design significantly enhances the effectiveness of written content materials such as newsletters, ebooks, blogs, brochures, etc., with 86% agreement on its importance.
• Original graphics are a priority in marketing and advertising, with 40% of marketers noting their importance.

Brand Identity

Graphic design is vital in creating a unique brand identity. It makes the brand recognize and differentiate from competitors that are out in the market with similar products and services. An engaging and attractive design can help a brand stand out from the competition and increase brand loyalty. Even the smallest detail, be it the font or the color scheme, can create a strong brand personality.

• Studies have shown that color can improve brand awareness by as much as 80%, emphasizing the role of graphic design in creating memorable and recognizable brand identities.
• 60.8% of marketers acknowledge that visuals are essential for successful brand marketing, highlighting the importance of graphic design in shaping a brand’s image and message.
• A substantial 82% of graphic design professionals agree that their work directly influences client sales, reinforcing the idea that effective design can significantly contribute to a brand’s financial success. 

 

Increased Engagement

There is no question that graphic design increases engagement with potential customers. When people are presented with a visually appealing website or online advertisement, they are more likely to engage with the content and ultimately make a purchase.

• Half of internet users have cited website design as a significant factor influencing their brand opinions. This underlines the power of good design in shaping customer perception and building brand identity.
• Graphic design is important because it is not just about aesthetics but also impacts learning and comprehension. Effective use of color in design can improve readership by 40%, learning by 55%-78%, and comprehension by 73%.
• Packaging design is another critical aspect of customer engagement, with 7 out of 10 consumers agreeing that it influences their purchasing decisions.

Enhanced User Experience

Good graphic design can also positively impact the user experience of a brand’s product. When designing a website or mobile app, user-friendly design principles should be key to the design process. Good graphic design considers the user’s experience, making it easy to navigate and offering a simple, intuitive interface.

• An overwhelming 94% of first impressions relate to a site’s web design, emphasizing the crucial role of graphic design in creating positive user experiences and perceptions.
• About 75% of website credibility comes from design, demonstrating how good graphic design can build trust and enhance the overall user experience.
• At least a third of apps are uninstalled within 30 days due to poor user experience, indicating the importance of effective graphic design in retaining app users.

Builds Trust

Investing in high-quality,  graphic design tells potential customers that this brand takes its reputation seriously. By investing in great design, companies can convey a sense of trustworthiness to potential customers.

• Graphic design plays a vital role in creating visual appeal for potential customers, which is a key factor in building trust and credibility for a brand.
  
• Simple design decisions like font choice can communicate a unique brand story to current and future customers, which is crucial in establishing trust and credibility. 
• Graphic design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about building brand consistency, communicating vital information, increasing sales, and enhancing trust and credibility.

 

Conclusion:

In today’s fast-paced world, consumers make snap judgments about brands based on their visual design. This is why graphic design should not be an afterthought. Companies must prioritize and invest in great graphic design if they hope to succeed in marketing. Strategic graphic design can help convey a brand’s values and personality to customers and create a strong brand identity. Investing in time and money for quality graphic design is a smart decision for any company hoping to make an impact in their industry.

Remember, good design equals good business! If you’re ready to take your marketing game to the next level with strategic graphic design, consult with Nicole Steffen Design, and we’ll help you develop a winning marketing strategy.